28/06/2026
There is a reason I wanted to write this post.
This is me and Dr Sabine Ware.
We both started with exactly the same dream... to one day compete at Australia's Greatest Horsewoman.
What many people probably don't realise is the amount of pressure we put on ourselves because of the careers we have. Sabine is an incredible equine rehabilitation veterinarian, and I'm a veterinary nurse and animal rehabilitation osteopathic practitioner.
When you work in the animal industry, it can feel like everyone is watching. You worry about making mistakes, about what people might think if your run doesn't go to plan, or if your horse isn't perfect. We both felt that pressure.
But we made a decision to stop worrying about everyone else's opinions and simply chase the dream that had been sitting in our hearts for years.
Looking back now, I'm so glad we did.
We actually met because I was one of Sabine's clients. Through conversation we realised we were both on the same journey, chasing the same dream. Years ago I was told, "Don't become friends with your clients." Well, Sabine and I are living proof that sometimes life has other plans. Our dreams aligned, our friendship grew, and now she's one of my closest mates. These days I'm usually the one organising our shows and telling her where we're heading next!
The reason I'm sharing this is because I want to encourage anyone sitting on the sidelines.
For years I wanted to compete in the western world, but I was too nervous. I was worried about doing it alone. Then one day I realised that if I kept waiting for someone else, I might never do it. Taking that first leap changed everything. I've met some of the most incredible people and lifelong friends because I simply showed up.
I hear it all the time... "My horse doesn't stop well." "My horse isn't good on cattle." "I'm scared of what people will think." "My horse isn't a superstar."
Can I tell you something?
I bought Cherry after spending years with another horse that just wasn't the right fit. Cherry wasn't perfect. She could be tricky, she'd happily drag me into the ground on the odd day, and she certainly wasn't a finished horse. But she gave me confidence. She got me out there having a go.
Did I feel judged by some of the top riders? Absolutely.
But they weren't riding my horse... I was.
Instead of giving up, I kept showing up.
Eventually I bought Mojo because I realised my riding had improved enough that I was ready for that next horse... my little Ferrari. But I wouldn't be riding him the way I am today if it wasn't for the horses that taught me the lessons first. Must I say im still learning, and many days look s**t. But......
The other day my daughter said, "Mum, I've watched you for years. I've seen you cry, I've seen things be hard, but you always get back up. I want to be just like you."
That hit me.
So remember... you will fall. You will have tears. Trust me, Sabine and I still have plenty of those at competitions! 🤭 But we dust ourselves off, enter the next one, and keep going.
Do it for you.
Because while you're standing there doubting yourself, there's someone on the other side of the fence wishing they had the courage to be exactly where you are.
Just start. Your journey might just change your life.